Manchester City are closing in on the signing of Antoine Semenyo after agreeing to meet the Bournemouth winger’s £65m release clause, with the deal expected to be completed before Saturday.
Semenyo is set to undergo a medical following Bournemouth’s clash with Tottenham on Wednesday night, a match that could prove to be his final appearance for the Cherries.
Despite heavy interest from Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and Spurs, City are the only club to have made formal contact, moving decisively to activate the clause before its January 10 deadline.
Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola admitted the noise around the deal has been hard to ignore, suggesting an exit may be imminent.
“I think it could be the last game,” Iraola said. “That is my personal opinion. There is nothing agreed and nothing signed, but that is how I understand the market and the noise.”
The Spaniard also underlined how difficult the Ghana international would be to replace, calling Semenyo “almost impossible” to substitute in the current window.
Semenyo has been a standout performer this season, scoring nine goals and providing three assists, form that has convinced City to act quickly as they look to strengthen their attacking options.
